After the arrival of the much hyped Intel Haswell processors earlier this month, we bring to you our first (of many) Z87 motherboard review for the Socket 1150 desktop platform. Does the Asus Z87 Deluxe have the midas touch?

One thing that you’ve probably noticed recently with the launch of Haswell Shark Bay platform is that the average Intel motherboard, even the lower end models, have improved significantly from a quality standpoint. Manufacturers are paying a lot more attention to PCB layout, VRM implementation, Audio/Networking subsystem and the software stack, in a bid to out-do their competitors for your hard earned money.

The Asus Z87 Deluxe, albeit one of the pricier contenders at US$289/SGD469 (nearly twice that of entry models), is a feature-filled and well proportioned offering from the Taiwanese motherboard giant. Taking on a new gold identity that represents the company’s commitment to a “gold standard of quality, performance, and durability”, the motherboard we have for review today is targeted at the more well-heeled enthusiast.